In 1958, Dr. Jérôme Lejeune, a French researcher, discovered that
chromosomal abnormalities cause conditions such as Down syndrome. It was an
incredible medical breakthrough, but Lejeune, now a Servant of God, is beloved
by Catholics because of his staunch pro-life advocacy, especially on behalf of
children diagnosed in the womb with chromosomal abnormalities.

To carry on the scientist’s legacy, the Jérôme Lejeune Foundation
honored Dr. John Bruchalski of Tepeyac OB/GYN and Divine Mercy Care in Fairfax
with an award at the One of Us European Federation Forum for Life in Budapest May
27. Bruchalski, once a pro-choice doctor, converted in 1990 and dedicated his
career to treating women and their unborn children.

Hundreds of people from around Europe, including doctors,
ethicists and prominent politicians, gathered for the forum. Bence Rétvari,
Hungarian minister of human capacities, addressed the conference, saying, “We
Hungarians are proud that Budapest is the capital of families. The defense of
life is one of the most important values ​​in
Europe.”

Bruchalski said he felt honored to accept an award from a
foundation named after a scientist who has greatly influenced his life and
work. Bruchalski was given 10,000 euros and a metal statue of a baby in the
womb, which will be placed in the Tepeyac office, he said. While he feels
unworthy to receive the award, he hopes to bring attention to the many American
pro-life doctors. “We provide real care in a world that's gone mad,” he said. “I
accepted it on behalf of all those people.”